How to Boost Your Mood With a Simple Hairdo: Exploring the Psychology Behind a Visit to the Salon

Everyone feels down from time to time. It’s normal – we’re human. And these days, there are plenty of extra reasons to feel bummed. The next time you’re in a mental health slump, schedule an appointment with your hairstylist. Why? Because science says so.

Express Your Emotions Creatively

Bangs. 

Layers. 

Bob. A-line. Red. Blonde. Mohawk. Fade. 

The possibilities to create a unique hairstyle are endless. Playing with your locks is fun. It’s also proven to improve mental health.

Research shows that engaging in creative activities increases feelings of happiness. This improves brain function and boosts mental and physical health. When you tickle your creative side, your mind focuses. A focused mind is a calm mind.

Updating your hairdo is a great way to express your emotions through creativity. Feeling sassy? Go for an edgy a-line. Want to rebrand yourself? Try a new color. Need a confidence boost? Improve your hair volume with extensions. Whatever style you choose, personalizing your hair is a creative way to find what makes you happy. [1][4][5]

Talk It Out to Improve Your Mood

Your hairstylist probably knows a lot about you. You trust them with one of your most prominent features – of course you have a unique bond.

If you’re up to it, you can discuss what’s bothering you with your stylist. While they aren’t a therapist, they have plenty of interpersonal experience.

You may not be comfortable sharing what’s got you down – that’s okay, too. Socializing with someone else about anything is scientifically proven to improve mental health.

If your stylist is like mine, her salon is bustling. This means there are always plenty of other people to chat with, too. And since everyone is there for self-care, the mood is positive and fun. You might even end up laughing, and we all know that laughter is the best medicine. [1][4]

Update Your Look and Boost Your Confidence

How you look affects how you feel.

When you wear a fabulous outfit or have an awesome hair day, you feel better because you’re more confident. Confidence increases self-esteem, and having positive self-esteem boosts your mood.

Americans will likely spend 94 billion dollars on beauty self-care in 2024. It’s no wonder – when you like the way you look, you’re more confident.

Hair stylists are artists, trained to help you look your best. With their expert eye, they can encourage – or discourage – your ideas. They know which hair colors pair best with your skin tone. They can shape your hair to emphasize your favorite features.

Your stylist’s expertise is sure to result in a stunning hairstyle. And your unique look is sure to leave you bursting with confidence.[3][6]

Take Control and Experience Positive Mental Health

It’s upsetting to lose control over your thoughts and feelings. So if you’re feeling sad, you’re already feeling powerless. The cure? Put yourself in a situation that you can control.

When you sit in your stylist’s chair, you call the shots.

How long will your hair be?

Which style will you flaunt?

What color will you rock?

You get to decide how you will transform your look. You’re in control.

Being in control is linked to positive mental health. When you’re in control, you hold the power to change your mood – and your life. So put yourself in the driver’s seat. Bask in your strength. Remind yourself who’s really in charge – you![2]

Book Yourself a Hair Appointment to Feel Happier

You don’t choose to be sad. But you’re human, and sadness is a reality. Luckily, a solution is right down the street. Visit your local salon to update your hairstyle and improve your mental health.

Express your emotions creatively.

Socialize with others.

Feel more confident.

Maintain control.

Take charge and pull yourself out of that slump. Call your hairstylist today to book an appointment. You deserve to be happy. You deserve to be confident. You deserve to be the best version of yourself.

Sources for this article:

[1] Berger, Sara Stillman. “Feeling Down? Here’s How to Bring Yourself Back Up.” Oprah Daily, 5 Apr. 2021, www.oprahdaily.com/life/health/a27507222/how-to-stop-being-sad/.

[2] Carey Ph.D., Timothy A. “Mental Health and Control | Psychology Today.” Www.psychologytoday.com, 2 Dec. 2019, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-control/201912/mental-health-and-control.

[3] Diller, Vivian. “The Psychology behind a “Good Hair Day.”” HuffPost, 31 Jan. 2012, www.huffpost.com/entry/good-hair-day_b_1191203. 

[4] “Feeling Blue? 12 Things to Know.” Healthline, 28 May 2020, www.healthline.com/health/feeling-blue. https://www.healthline.com/health/feeling-blue

[5] Stahl, Ashley. “Here’s How Creativity Actually Improves Your Health.” Forbes, 25 July 2018, www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2018/07/25/heres-how-creativity-actually-improves-your-health/?sh=5f5552c013a6. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

[6] “US Cosmetics Market - Beauty and Personal Care - Size & Statistics.” Www.mordorintelligence.com, www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/united-states-cosmetics-products-market-industry#:~:text=US%20Cosmetics%20Market%20Analysis. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.